Dharamshala – In a recent interview, Lobsang Sangay held firm that the 'middle way' approach continues to be the best way to resolve the ongoing Tibet issue.

The 47 year old political leader of the Tibetan government in exile, who will celebrate his fourth year in office on August 8th, went on to reiterate his government's policy and continued aim to resume dialogue with China. "The 'middle-way' approach is still our policy. Regarding the talks, our stand is still the same," he stated.

The "middle-way" approach seeks a resolution of the Tibetan issue within the framework of the Chinese constitution.

Sangay went on to quote the recent pressure western countries have also put on China to resume talks, saying hope is still very much alive. European Council president Donald Tusk called on China to resume a dialogue with representatives of the Tibetan spiritual leader the Dalai Lama.

Earlier, the US told the Chinese government to hold direct and substantive discussions with the Dalai Lama or his representatives without preconditions.

Also during the UN Human Rights Council's 29th Session on June 24 in Geneva, concerns were expressed over the human rights situation in China including in Tibet, Sangay said.

Said Sangay: "Even if Tibet has been under occupation for 56 years, faith and fervour of Tibetans is alive and will remain so."

About human rights violations in Tibet, he said: "The death of Tulku Tenzin Delek Rinpoche recently is sad. This shows the continuing hardline policies of the Chinese government."

The Tibetan exile administration is based in this northern hill town and is going to elect a set of new political leader next year.

The preliminary election for the Sikyong members of the 16th Tibetan parliament will be held on October 18, and the final election is slotted for March 20th, 2016.